Search in Publications

Found 6334 publications

Experimental Study on Ground Reaction Force Parameters with Regard to Novice and Recreational Runners

Publication Name: Advances in Transdisciplinary Engineering

Publication Date: 2024-01-01

Volume: 59

Issue: Unknown

Page Range: 530-537

Description:

The connection between running experience and running-related injuries is still unclear, and the underlying mechanisms are yet to be fully investigated. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate differences in ground reaction forces (GRFs) between novice runners and recreational runners. 15 novice and 15 recreational runners participated in this study. An independent samples T-test was applied using SPSS 25.0 and SPM1D via Matlab. The results showed that recreational runners exhibited a significantly larger peak vertical impact force and peak medial force than the novice group, while the peak propulsive force was smaller than the novice group. The SPM1D results also showed that recreational runners and novice runners exhibited significant differences in medial-lateral force, anterior-posterior force and vertical force. The differences between the groups may reveal differences in running kinetics, which could be related to superior running performance or ability. Valuable insights may be gained from this study to guide future research on injury risks and performance benefits from running.

Open Access: Yes

DOI: 10.3233/ATDE240590

Effects of Biostimulant and Zinc (Zn) Treatment on Qualitative and Quantitative Indicators of Winter Rape (Brassica Napus L.)

Publication Name: Chemical Engineering Transactions

Publication Date: 2024-01-01

Volume: 114

Issue: Unknown

Page Range: 769-774

Description:

Winter rapeseed production has completely changed in Hungary in recent years. The use of hybrids has become commonplace, and intensive cultivation techniques are widespread. At the same time, average yields also increased, making rapeseed one of the most profitable crops. Maintaining profitability is a priority task, and in addition to further increasing average yields, improving quality parameters and crop safety is also decisive. Rapeseed production today faces significant challenges. As a result of climate change, the cultivation routine of decades is changing, and biostimulators are becoming more and more perspective in addition to foliar fertilisation with macro- and microelements. During this research, a 3-year small-plot field experiment was set up with a winter rapeseed indicator. The main objective of the experiment was to study the physiological reactions of rape plants to different doses of Zn and the combined reaction of the biostimulator and Zn. During the experiment, the reaction of the rapeseed test plant on zinc-deficient calcareous chernozem soils was investigated under the influence of different doses of Zn and combined doses of Zn and biostimulation. The aim of the study is to determine whether rapeseed plants respond to zinc supplementation and the combined effect of the bio stimulator and zinc with increased yield and improved nutritional values (protein content, oil content). In the first annual study, two treatments were performed, one in autumn (BBCH 16-18 phenological stage) and one in spring (BBCH 29 phenological stage). Zinc tetramine hydroxide was used in 4 different doses (2, 5, 10, 20 L/ha), zinc tetramine hydroxide enriched with copper in 2 different doses (5 and 10 L/ha), Quantis in the manufacturer's prescribed dose of 2 L/ha, biostimulant enriched with zinc, and a usual foliar fertiliser used in rapeseed growing with Wuxal boron at the dose recommended by the manufacturer. During the growing season, the development of root mass, root length, SPAD values, as well as the yield and oleic acid content were evaluated by mathematical statistical method. It can be stated that there was no significant difference in the root mass, root length, and SPAD values, but there was a significant yield difference in the amount of the crop in the second-year experiment (P = 10 %). Studies have shown that biostimulants have the greatest influence on the development of measured parameters.

Open Access: Yes

DOI: 10.3303/CET24114129

Pregnancy-induced gait alterations: meta-regression evidence of spatiotemporal adjustments

Publication Name: Frontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology

Publication Date: 2024-01-01

Volume: 12

Issue: Unknown

Page Range: Unknown

Description:

During pregnancy, women undergo significant physiological, hormonal, and biomechanical changes that influence their gait. The forward shift of the center of mass and increased joint loads often result in a “waddling gait,” elevating the risk of falls. While gait changes during pregnancy have been documented, findings across studies remain inconsistent, particularly regarding variations at different pregnancy stages. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to quantify the impact of pregnancy stages on spatiotemporal gait parameters. A comprehensive literature search across six databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, EBSCO, Embase, and Cochrane Library) was conducted to identify studies on pregnancy and gait, and data on publication details, methodology, participant characteristics, gait outcomes, and study limitations were extracted. Out of 4,581 initial records, 21 studies met the inclusion criteria. The meta-analysis revealed significant changes in gait parameters during pregnancy, with decreases in stride length (effect size = −0.29) and gait speed (effect size = −0.55), and increases in stride width (effect size = 0.45), cycle time (effect size = 0.38), and double support time (effect size = 0.41). Meta-regression analyses indicated that gestational weeks significantly impacted stride length (β = −0.03 [95% CI, −0.055 to −0.002], p < 0.05) and stride width (β = 0.02 [95% CI, 0.003 to 0.039], p < 0.05), while no significant effects were found for cycle time, double support time, or gait speed. In conclusion, pregnancy leads to significant changes in gait patterns, with a notable increase in stride width and a decrease in stride length as gestation progresses, suggesting these adjustments are strategies for maintaining balance and stability in response to physiological changes. The analysis also emphasizes that while gestational age influences gait adaptations, other factors such as pelvic girdle pain, footwear, and psychological influences play crucial roles. Understanding these complex gait changes can inform interventions and guidelines to support mobility and safety for pregnant women throughout their pregnancy.

Open Access: Yes

DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2024.1506002

Teaching Aspects of ROS 2 and Autonomous Vehicles †

Publication Name: Engineering Proceedings

Publication Date: 2024-01-01

Volume: 79

Issue: 1

Page Range: Unknown

Description:

The advancement of autonomous vehicles (AVs) has brought forth a substantial need for effective education in robotic operating systems, particularly ROS 2, which serves as the backbone for many autonomous vehicle (AV) applications. This paper explores the academic approach and instructional methodologies tailored for teaching ROS 2 in the context of autonomous vehicle technology. It highlights the critical components and architecture of ROS 2, emphasizing its modularity, real-time communication capabilities, and robust ecosystem which make it ideal for AV development. Through a detailed curriculum outline, we describe hands-on learning activities, simulation-based exercises, and project-driven modules that facilitate deep understanding and practical skills acquisition. The effectiveness of these teaching methods is evaluated through a mixed-methods study involving student feedback, performance assessments, and project outcomes. Results indicate significant improvements in student comprehension and proficiency in both ROS 2 and autonomous vehicle systems. This research contributes to the body of knowledge by providing a comprehensive framework for educators to effectively teach ROS 2, thereby fostering the next generation of engineers proficient in developing and deploying autonomous vehicle technologies.

Open Access: Yes

DOI: 10.3390/engproc2024079049

ASSESSING EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE IN HIGHER EDUCATION: POLICY RECOMMENDATIONS FOR KAZAKHSTAN’S EDUCATION SYSTEM

Publication Name: Public Policy and Administration

Publication Date: 2024-01-01

Volume: 23

Issue: 4

Page Range: 490-507

Description:

Emotional intelligence (EI) shapes students’ academic success and life satisfaction, influencing broader educational outcomes. This study assesses EI and life attitudes among students in Kazakhstan and explores the relationship between these variables, providing policy recommendations for integrating emotional skills development into higher education. Using the Big-Five, the Bar-On Emotional Quotient Inventory, and the Lüscher color test, data were collected from 2019 to 2023. In the first stage (2019–2021), a pilot study was conducted with 504 participants, followed by the main study (2021–2023)which involved 4,027 participants. The results indicate that EI significantly correlates with life satisfaction, stress management, and leadership behavior, while age and gender show varying impacts. No direct correlation was found between year of study and EI. These findings suggest that policymakers should consider incorporating EI development into educational programs across all levels of higher education in Kazakhstan to enhance students’ academic and personal outcomes. Future research could explore the role of targeted educational interventions in improving long-term student success and professional development, with potential applications in other contexts.

Open Access: Yes

DOI: 10.13165/VPA-24-23-4-05

Optimal Performance Assessment of Re-Recycled Concrete: Combining Water Absorption, Compressive Strength Using MOORA Technique

Publication Name: Chemical Engineering Transactions

Publication Date: 2024-01-01

Volume: 114

Issue: Unknown

Page Range: 1039-1044

Description:

This work presents water absorption and compressive strength testing of re-recycled aggregate concrete with fly ash and silica fumes. Two different types of fly ash and silica fume were used in place of ordinary Portland cement. According to test results, the selected ratios of fly ash and silica fume added to the used concrete mixtures enhanced its strength and balanced the loss in water absorption, at water-cement ratio of 0.4. The paper also thoroughly examines the full life cycle and evaluates the reuse of recycled concrete, considering seven various mixtures, using multi-criteria decision-making, namely MOORA technique. This framework is analysed by evaluating essential performance factors, namely water absorption, technical aspect (compressive strength for both short and long durations), environmental factors (effects on human health, quality of ecology, global changes in climate, and source utilization), and financial considerations (price-related). The results indicate that utilizing re-recycled concrete aggregate presents a significant environmental impact reduction (up to 39 %), and cost savings (5-10 %) compared to traditional concrete.

Open Access: Yes

DOI: 10.3303/CET24114174

Computer-aided Molecular and Process Design (CAMPD) for Ionic Liquid Assisted Extractive Distillation of Refrigerant Mixtures

Publication Name: Computer Aided Chemical Engineering

Publication Date: 2024-01-01

Volume: 53

Issue: Unknown

Page Range: 1303-1308

Description:

Computer-aided Molecular and Process Design, CAMPD, is a technique that simultaneously optimizes the choice of materials, such as solvents, and the corresponding process configurations for many chemical separation processes. The technique involves formulating an equation-oriented optimization model representing the overall design problem, which then can be solved in many ways depending on the chemicals involved, the property and process models, and the complexity and size of the problem, among others. Due to the complexity and large-size of the problem, and a lack of predictive property models, we have applied a decomposition-based CAMPD strategy that involves solving a series of subproblems sequentially to reduce the overall search space, thereby reducing the computational burden. We illustrate our strategy through a case study involving the design of ionic liquids (ILs) as solvents for the extractive-distillation based separation of an azeotropic refrigerant mixture, R-410A. Separation of such mixtures is gaining increased interest due to the need to remove, substitute or reuse constituent refrigerant chemicals that have undesirable properties (such as high global warming potential, flammability, etc.). ILs are considered because of their designable properties as functions of their molecular structures. Based on available measured data, group-contribution based predictive property models have been developed and interfaced with the workflow of the proposed strategy. A set of promising ILs have been identified and their performance verified through process simulation.

Open Access: Yes

DOI: 10.1016/B978-0-443-28824-1.50218-0

ASSESSMENT OF TRAFFIC SIGN RETROREFLECTIVITY FOR AUTONOMOUS VEHICLES: A COMPARISON BETWEEN HANDHELD RETROREFLECTOMETER AND LIDAR DATA

Publication Name: Archives of Transport

Publication Date: 2024-01-01

Volume: 70

Issue: 2

Page Range: 7-26

Description:

This study investigates the critical role of retroreflectivity in traffic signs, particularly in the context of autonomous vehicles (AVs), where accurate detection is paramount for road safety. Retroreflectivity, influencing visibility and legibility, is essential for ensuring safe road conditions. The study aims to assess traffic sign retroreflectivity using handheld retroreflectometers and LiDAR data, offering a comprehensive comparison of results with a specific focus on the RA1 and RA2 traffic sign classes. In a real-world setting, an AV equipped with LiDAR sensors, GPS units, and a stereo camera collects data on traffic signs, including point cloud attributes such as intensity and density. Simultaneously, a handheld retroreflectometer measures retroreflectivity coefficients from identified traffic signs. While retroreflectometers provide precision, they face limitations regarding time-consuming measurements and handling large or elevated signs. In contrast, LiDAR systems efficiently evaluate retroreflective features for numerous signs without such constraints. Despite both methods consistently yielding accurate retroreflectivity, the study reveals a limited correlation between LiDAR point cloud data and handheld retroreflectivity coefficients. The implications of these findings are significant, particularly in the selection and maintenance of retroreflective materials in traffic signs, with direct repercussions on overall road safety. The results offer valuable insights into leveraging LiDAR technology to enhance AVs' detection capabilities. Recommendations for further research include exploring factors influencing LiDAR intensity, establishing a more accurate relationship between intensity and retroreflectivity, correcting the point cloud during intensity calibration, and testing empirical prediction models with a larger sample size. These endeavors aim to generate a robust regression graph and determine correlation coefficients, providing a more nuanced understanding of the intricate relationship between LiDAR data and handheld retroreflectivity coefficients in the context of traffic sign assessment.

Open Access: Yes

DOI: 10.61089/aot2024.qxy24g93

Exploring the Persuasiveness of Valenced Fake News: A Construal-Level Theory Perspective

Publication Name: Journal of Intercultural Communication

Publication Date: 2024-01-01

Volume: 24

Issue: 4

Page Range: 156-172

Description:

This study explores how fake news messages impact readers’ perceptions of credibility. By com-bining valenced framing and construal-level theory, the research examines how temporal, spatial, and mental construal dimensions can moderate the relationship between fake news and credibility. A quantitative method was adopted, applying repeated-measures ANOVA analysis. To measure framing effects, 16 negative and 16 positive fake news stories about China were selected from the fact-checking database of Snopes.com. The respondents were chosen from students in the northwestern part of Russia and Hun-gary, due to the proximity of these countries to China. The results indicate that valenced fake news can be more persuasive when evaluating credibility for proximal events rather than for distant ones. Addition-ally, negative fake news that contains concrete information is found to be more influential on perceptions of believability. The study suggests that the level of credibility is significantly affected by the interplay between the type of valenced fake news frame and how concrete and abstract information is presented in the message. Furthermore, the implications and future research directions in the field of fake news are discussed.

Open Access: Yes

DOI: 10.36923/jicc.v24i4.958